The holiday season is approaching, so it's time to start thinking of a special gift to give your fisherman. 

Christmas time's coming, and the special fisherman in your life will much appreciate new tackle and fishing-related gifts under the tree.

If you're trying to keep the fishing gifts secret, it's best not to try to gift a stainless-steel fishing rod. A long, cylindrical package is a dead giveaway. However, it's easy to wrap up a new fishing reel and fishing gear and accessories (sunglasses and fishing lures are my personal favorites).

The PENN name is synonymous with saltwater fishing. The brand has the new Spinfisher VI spinning reel available in a wide variety of sizes and gear ratios, making it a great gift for your fisherman. The Spinfisher VI features IPX5 sealing, so you don't have to worry about saltwater getting into the gearbox or drag system. The HT-100 drag washers are housed in a fully sealed spool to give the stopping power needed for big saltwater fish, and Alabama has plenty of those big fish. A full metal body and side plate keep the CNC gear system in precise alignment under heavy loads. The reels are also available in standard, Live Liner, Long Cast, and bail-less models.

Of course, the fisherman is just as likely to see a saltwater angler with a high-quality Shimano reel in their hands, making it another great gift idea. The latest spinning reel from Shimano is the Vanford, which utilizes the latest technology and engineering found in spinning reels. Built upon a CI4+ body for both a lightweight feel and carbon rigidity, this reel incorporates a MagnumLite (MGL) Rotor for up to 48 percent less rotational inertia than traditional rotor construction for a quick response in critical situations. The Vanford features Shimano's cold-forged HAGANE gear and many of Shimano's premium technologies for increased fishing performance and years of durability. Vanford's SilentDrive and MicroModule Gear II technologies combine to produce a new level of smooth rotational performance while reducing overall reel vibration. It also incorporates long stroke spool technology to increase casting distance while producing a smoother line lay on the spool during retrieval. X-protect technology and water-channeling construction enhance Vanford's water resistance and overall durability.

If your favorite fisherman prefers baitcasting reels, which I do when casting jigs or plugs, my favorite baitcaster is Shimano Curado. Unfortunately, many anglers will stick with spinning gear because of the risk of a baitcaster backlash that could leave a bird's nest of line in your reel. The new Curado DC solves the backlash problem with modern technology. Shimano's new digital control braking system utilizes a microcomputer to monitor spool speed 1,000 times every second and apply the perfect amount of brake to prevent backlash and maximize distance. Anglers of all skill levels will appreciate less thumbing and trouble-free casting in all conditions.

Anglers need to re-spool their reels with new lines regularly to deal with the effects of our beautiful sunny days. Vicious Fishing, a company started in Dora, Alabama, has a new fluorocarbon line called Tora, available in strengths of 11-pound break strength to 24 pounds, perfect for a Bass fisherman. Fluorocarbon is nearly invisible in the water and is perfect when the fish are finicky. In addition, P-Line has a new spin braid designed for spinning tackle, and Seaguar BasiX is an affordable fluorocarbon line.

For those fishing enthusiasts' stocking stuffers, consider several bags of FishBites. These tasty tidbits infused with various saltwater bait flavors are indispensable for inshore and surf anglers. Just add a chunk to your hook, and you've added extra enticement for the fish to bite.

Head to the local tackle shops along the beautiful Alabama Gulf Coast and grab the fishing-themed gifts that will give the anglers in your family a happy face on Christmas morning.

While on your gift-giving trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, check out the lodging options available. 

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